How to Dial for Dollars – Sample Script

Learn the three-part process of dialing for dollars with this free sample call script!

Learn how to create a candidate fundraising call script

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Download the complete How to Dial for Dollars Worksheet

Dialing for dollars is as simple as ABC:

A. QUICK AND STRONG OPENER

B. NEXT, TAKE 30 SECONDS TO GO DEEPER

C. FINALLY, MAKE THE ASK – then, STOP talking!

HOW TO DIAL FOR DOLLARS: CANDIDATE FUNDRAISING CALL SCRIPT

A. QUICK AND STRONG OPENER:

Use one of the following to pique their interest. Your donor research can help identify your best opener.

Hello, this is <NAME> and I’m a candidate for <OFFICE> in <DISTRICT/CITY>…

• I’d like a few minutes of your time to tell you about my campaign and to get your input about the most relevant issues confronting our state. (Only say this if it’s true. If you’re really just interested in getting $, don’t ask for their input; it’s insincere.)

• I’d like a few minutes to tell you about my plans for improving our schools and re-opening the community center. And, I hope, get your support in making that plan a reality.

• I’m a lifelong resident of the district and am raising my family here. I’m ready to see a brighter economic future for our children and want to talk with you today about how we can do that together.

• I’m a Republican/Democrat running for the seat and I will be a strong voice for our party once elected to the legislature (or appropriate political body).

• I’m a member of the <NAME YOUR ISSUE ORG> and I will fight for this issue everyday while in office.

• I will be the <first woman, youngest person, second person of color> to hold this seat (i.e. what’s unique about you), and will continue to fight for the concerns of <GROUP>.

B. NEXT, TAKE 30 SECONDS TO GO DEEPER:

• Include a quick bio or elevator pitch (remember, 30 seconds, max). For example, “I’m a city council member, a small-business owner and an active volunteer in our community, primarily though the PTA.”

• Try to engage potential donors in conversation about their values and priorities. For example, ask what they believe are the most pressing issues in your area or your race. (Again, only if you are seriously interested in their response. Knowing their values/priorities may help shape the ask for donors you don’t know well.)

• Capitalize on what the person on the other end of the line just said, especially when their values/issues coincide with yours—making it clear that you are really listening. Feeling like they are being heard will go a long way in getting a commitment.

C. FINALLY, MAKE THE ASK – then, STOP talking!

I’m asking you to invest in my campaign, and therefore in our shared <INSERT COMMON ISSUE, CONCERN OR COMMUNITY> by making a $XX donation. (For donation amounts, refer to your donor list. Know the amount you are asking for before making the call.)

After you ask, pause and stay quiet, let the person on the phone answer you. (Ladies, sometimes this proves difficult, but here the phrase rings true – silence is golden!)

• If they agree to donate: Thank them and ask the method of payment they prefer. You can send them to your website to contribute online, or take their credit card information on the phone (using a donation form to make sure you get all of the donor information required by law), or mail them a fundraising envelope. If they’d prefer to give online, don’t forget to get/confirm their email address!!

• If they say no: Ask if there is further information you can provide that would help get them on your team. Be sure to keep notes and have someone follow up immediately. Thank them for their time and stress the importance of their vote for you (if they live in your district).

• If they cannot contribute your “ask” amount, have a back-up number (not less than half of your original ask) and see if they are more comfortable with that amount. Quick tip: Many online donation software have monthly giving plans or multiple donations options, where folks can contribute smaller amounts over time. If you have that option, share it – you may just get that original ask amount from them!